Looking to celebrate the music festival Fête de la Musique, which is known as World Music Day, millions of people packed the streets of France to enjoy a day of dancing, partying, and of course, music. But for police, the day was filled with stress as the streets overflowed with partygoers. Just on Saturday night, police arrested nearly 400 people for various crimes. Yet for France’s interior ministry, they found itself at the center of a rather serious situation when 145 individuals reported being pricked with syringes while enjoying the festivities.
Videos by American Songwriter
With an investigation opened over the matter, officials continued to look into the cases, wondering if the syringes were used for “needle spiking.” The term is often used when attackers inject a person with drugs like Rohypnol or GHB. Often referred to as date-rape drugs, it can cause a victim to become disoriented and even unconscious.
Releasing a statement on the incident, a spokesperson for the ministry said, “The ministry is taking this very seriously. Toxicology tests are being done and the investigation is ongoing.”
In Paris, a separate investigation was opened after a 15-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man reported being stuck with a syringe. And both incidents happened miles apart in the city. With the victims feeling unwell after being stuck, they sought out medical attention and notified the authorities.
Influencer Warned About “Needle Spiking” During Music Festival
While not giving away too many details about the investigation, French police moved quickly as they detained 12 people on Sunday who they believed played a part in the “needle spiking.” French broadcaster for CNews, Laurent Nuñez, called the situation serious even after some online warned music lovers of the threat.
Before the streets filled with millions of people, feminist influencer Abrège Soeur sought to warn fans about the supposed attack. She noted how some posted on social media about women being targeted for “needle spiking.” As for Nuñez, she considered the social media posts “Completely idiotic.”
For now, the investigation remained open with police already detaining those who they believed were behind the attack. But with over 370 people arrested on Saturday, officials are feeling the stress of Fête de la Musique.
(Photo by Jerome Gilles/NurPhoto/Shutterstock)
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.